The best spots for Spring and Summer in Berlin, 2023 edition

By Jeroen, 3 July 2023

Berlin, Hide and Seek

The best spots for Spring and Summer in Berlin, 2023 edition

Berlin is a city that never sleeps, with a vibrant culture, history, and nightlife. Whether you are looking for art, music, food, or fun, Berlin has something to offer for everyone.

Hide and Seek is proud to be present in Berlin since the summer of 2022. Since then we have discovered lots of places we would like to share with you. In this article, we will share some of the best spots in Berlin that you should not miss on your (weekend) trip.

Because we have way too many tips, we divided this list into four main categories:

Outdoor and neighborhoods
Drinks, food and party
Shopping
Arts and Culture

For super easy access, we’ve made a Google list so it’s easy to add all our favorite places to your own account!

Outdoor and neighborhoods

Flea market at Mauerpark

Mauerpark is a busy public park located in the Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood. The park was created after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Today, Mauerpark is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse activities. On Sundays, the park hosts a popular flea market where visitors can find vintage clothing, handmade crafts and jewelery, and unique souvenirs. The park is also a hub for musicians and street artists, with regular open-air concerts and performances. Additionally, Mauerpark offers plenty of green space and recreational activities, including sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

Price: Free
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Tempelhofer Feld

Tempelhofer Feld is a public park located in the Tempelhof-Schöneberg district of Berlin. The park is situated on the site of the former Tempelhof Airport, which operated from the 1920s until 2008. After the airport closed, the site was transformed into a vast public park, covering over 300 hectares. The park’s main attraction is the enormous airfield, which provides space for various recreational activities, such as cycling, skateboarding, rollerblading, and kite-flying. Tempelhofer Feld also features several picnic and barbecue areas, playgrounds, and a community garden, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The park has a rich history and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Berlin’s past and a serene escape from the bustle of the city.

Price:Free

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Food & Drinks

We have come up with a great list of places to go. You won’t believe it, but it could have even been longer. Feel free to share other gems with us.

La Maison

If you are craving some authentic French pastries, sandwiches, and delicious coffee, head to La Maison on Paul-Lincke-Ufer in Kreuzberg. This cozy bakery and café offers a variety of croissants, cakes, and snacks that will make your mouth water. The Tuna Melt and the Grilled Cheese are Hide and Seek’s favorites.

La Maison is located next to the canal and is especially on sunny afternoons a must-go. The wide terrace is divided by a big tree that will provide much-needed shade on warm Berlin summer days. La Maison is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 7 am to 9 pm.

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Ketori Coffee

Looking for the best fresh roasted coffee in Neukölln (or maybe in the whole of Berlin), look no further than Ketori located on Weserstraße. Ketori Coffee is a hidden gem in Neukölln that serves specialty coffee from Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil. The owner roasts the beans himself and you can taste this. You can also try their homemade cakes and kombucha.

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Berghain

Berghain is one of the most famous nightclubs in the world. Located near the border between Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain (hence the name), this former power plant hosts some of the best techno DJs and parties. Keep in mind tho that Berghain is known for its strict door policy and hour-long queues. Berghain has club nights on Fridays and from Saturday night until Monday morning you can dance non-stop on the legendary Klubnacht. Pro-tip: Don’t forget to bring enough cash for entrance and drinks, as there is no ATM inside and the queue for re-entering can be long.

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Michelberger Hotel

The Michelberger Hotel is a unique and innovative hotel located in Friedrichshain, close to The Wall Museum and the Spree river. The hotel is renowned for its creative design, relaxed atmosphere, and commitment to sustainability. Originally opened in 2009, the Michelberger Hotel has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind hotel experience. The hotel’s design combines industrial chic with handmade, loungy and Japanese touches, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. In addition to its stylish rooms, the Michelberger Hotel is home to a popular bar and restaurant, which serve locally sourced and organic food and drink. Overall, the Michelberger Hotel is a true recommendation if you are looking for a place to stay or if you are just in need for some good Riesling and some snacks alongside.

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Markthalle Neun

Markthalle Neun is a busy food market located in Kreuzberg. Originally built in 1891, this historic hall has been revived in recent years and is now a popular destination for food lovers from around the world. The market features a wide range of local and international food vendors, showcasing the best of Berlin’s culinary scene. From fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and meats, visitors can explore a diverse selection of delicious foods, as well as a variety of drinks and craft beers. Markthalle Neun also hosts a range of events throughout the year, including food festivals, cooking classes, and live music performances. With its lively atmosphere and mouth-watering food, Markthalle Neun is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Berlin.

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Sameheads

Sameheads is a quirky bar and club in Neukölln that features live music, DJs, and art exhibitions. The interior is decorated with retro furniture, neon lights, and all kind of weird objects that create a unique atmosphere. Upstairs you can enjoy the bright scenario, downstairs you can dance with nice music, or you can enjoy a drink in the smokey basement.

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The Black Lodge

Are you a fan of David Lynch’s Twin Peaks? Then go definitely check out The Black Lodge. Located on the Sanderstraße in Kreuzberg, The Black Lodge is a vibrant cocktail bar with a style that fans of the 90’s television series will recognize.

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Paolo Pinkel

One of Hide and Seek’s favorite spots in Berlin is Paolo Pinkel. Paolo Pinkel is a trendy and vibrant bar and restaurant located in the hip Neukolln neighborhood of Berlin. The bar is open every day from 18:00 onwards and serves next to delicious cocktails and a large selection of good food. In the bar, there are three restaurants located, all with their own kitchens and style. So come hungry and try some delicious Thai, Cypriotic, or Italian food.

Paolo Pinkel is the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring the city or to socialize with friends in a laid-back setting. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a lively party atmosphere, Paolo Pinkel is sure to satisfy you.

Fun fact: Our first-ever company event in Berlin was hosted in Paolo Pinkel.

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Nefis Gemüse Kebap

Of course, you can’t visit Berlin without tasting one of its famous (vegan or meat) döners. Although there are hundreds of döner restaurants, we can highly recommend Nefis Gemüse Kebap. The quality of the meat, the crunchiness of the sandwich, and the freshness of the salad all combine to make the perfect döner.

Another good thing about this restaurant is usually there is not a long waiting time (compared to some other restaurants where the queue can take up to several hours).

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Cafe Luzia

Located in the busy Oranienstraße in the heart of Kreuzberg is Café Luzia, a hip cafe to enjoy a good glass of beer, coffee, or wine among locals and tourists alike. The bar has big windows which allow you to see what’s happening on the street. From 18:00 onwards they also serve good cocktails.

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Bellboy Bar

Looking for a fun-looking cocktail? Then Bellboy Bar is a must-visit. It’s always crowded, so be sure to make a reservation. The speakeasy-style bar is located in the Mitte district of Berlin. The bar is known for its creative and expertly-crafted cocktails, The bar’s menu changes seasonally, with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. In addition to its exceptional cocktails, Bellboy Bar also offers a selection of small plates and snacks to complement the drinks.

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Klunkerkranich

Klunkerkranich is a popular rooftop bar and cultural hotspot located in the Neukölln district of Berlin, Germany. Situated on top of a multi-story car park, the bar boasts stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and an eclectic atmosphere that combines art, music, and urban gardening. Klunkerkranich is known for its laid-back vibe and diverse programming, with a rotating schedule of live music performances, DJ sets, film screenings, and other cultural events. The bar also features a rooftop garden, where visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks while taking in the views and soaking up the sun.

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La Cote

Another favorite restaurant of Hide and Seek is La Cote, located in the heart of Schillerkiez, the cozy neighborhood next to Tempelhofer Feld. The restaurant offers cozy seating and delicious food and wines. Start your evening with some good oysters and be sure to taste the Roquefort ice cream onion tarte tatin.

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Borchardt Restaurant

Looking for a fancy and classic German restaurant night? Then Borchardt might be a good choice for you. The restaurant offers classic German cuisine, such as Schnitzels, but also offers oysters and tuna steaks.

The restaurant is located in a big and impressive space with high ceilings in the Mitte district of Berlin. The service is exceptional just as the number of waiters ready to serve you. Make sure to wear your best dress or suit and indulge in the luxury of Borchardt.

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Shopping

Voo Store

Voo Store is a popular concept store located at the hip Oranienstrasse in Kreuzberg. Founded in 2010, the store has become a go-to destination for fashion enthusiasts and design lovers alike, offering a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories, and home goods from both established and emerging designers. With its minimalist and stylish interior design, Voo Store provides a unique shopping experience that combines fashion, art, and culture. In addition to its retail space, Voo Store also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions, including art shows, music performances, and fashion presentations. Whether you’re looking for cutting-edge fashion or a creative cultural experience, Voo Store is a must-visit destination in Berlin.

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Wsiura

What would a shopping spree in Berlin be without visiting some vintage stores. If you are looking for well-curated and sometimes customized vintages (designer) pieces, then be sure to check out Wsiura in Kreuzberg. The store offers a wide selection of vintage clothing in several rooms and a cool basement.

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KaDeWe

KaDeWe, short for Kaufhaus des Westens, is a luxurious and iconic department store located in Charlottenburg. It was opened in 1907 and has since then become one of the most prestigious and renowned shopping destinations in Europe. The store spans eight floors, offering an unique shopping experience with an extensive selection of high-end designer brands, luxury goods, and gourmet food products. In addition to shopping, the store also features several restaurants, bars, and cafes, including a gourmet food hall on the top floor.

Our personal favorite is the oyster bar on the 7th floor where you can enjoy delicious oysters alongside a cold glass of champagne.

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Motto

Motto Berlin is a independent bookstore and cultural hub located in the heart of Kreuzberg. Founded in 2003, Motto Berlin has established itself as a leading destination for the latest and most innovative publications in contemporary art, photography, design, and other creative fields. With a carefully curated selection of books, zines, and magazines from around the world, Motto Berlin provides a platform for independent publishers and emerging artists to showcase their work and connect with a diverse community of readers and enthusiasts. In addition to its bookstore, Motto Berlin also hosts regular events, workshops, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant and dynamic space for creative exchange and experimentation. Whether you’re a book lover, a creative professional, or simply looking for inspiration, Motto Berlin is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in contemporary culture and ideas.

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Arts and Culture

König Galerie

Located in an impressive former brutalist-style church building and founded in 2002 by Johann König, the gallery has quickly become a leading destination for art enthusiasts and collectors from around the world. With its spacious exhibition rooms and diverse range of contemporary art, KÖNIG GALERIE showcases the work of both established and emerging artists, including painting, sculpture, video, and installation art. The gallery also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including talks, performances, and film screenings, providing visitors with a dynamic and immersive art experience. A must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for art.

Price:Free

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Schinkel Pavillon

The Schinkel Pavillon is a contemporary art museum/gallery located in the heart of Berlin. The museum is housed in a beautiful old bank vault/building that was designed by the celebrated architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel in the early 19th century. Today, the Schinkel Pavillon hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions featuring works by both established and emerging artists from around the world. The gallery is known for its innovative and thought-provoking shows, as well as its commitment to supporting experimental and boundary-pushing art practices. In addition to its exhibition program, the Schinkel Pavillon also hosts a variety of public programs and events, including talks, screenings, and performances.

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KW Institute

KW Institute for Contemporary Art, also known as KW Institute or just simply KW, is a contemporary art institution located in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte area. Founded in 1991, KW Institute is dedicated to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works of art across a wide range of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, performance, and installation. The institution’s programming includes a variety of exhibitions, public programs, and events, such as talks, screenings, and performances. KW Institute is known for its experimental and interdisciplinary approach to contemporary art, as well as its commitment to supporting emerging and underrepresented artists.

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Teufelsberg

Teufelsberg is a man-made hill located in the western part of Berlin, Germany. It was created during the Cold War era from the rubble of World War II, as part of a massive construction project that aimed to dispose of the debris and create new land. The hill is approximately 120 meters high and offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding cityscape.

During the Cold War, Teufelsberg played an important role as a listening post for the US National Security Agency (NSA) to monitor Soviet and East German communications. The NSA constructed a massive listening station on the hilltop, which remained in operation until the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989.

Today, Teufelsberg is a popular tourist destination and a cultural hub for art and music events. The abandoned listening station has been transformed into an urban art gallery, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world. The hill and its surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.

Overall, Teufelsberg is a unique and fascinating landmark that represents both the dark history of the Cold War and the vibrant culture of modern-day Berlin.

Price:Free

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Enjoy our tips!

Thank you for checking out our best spots for the spring and summer of 2023 for Berlin! Want to hang out? Find our office in Berlin and catch up with a coffee (or cocktail).

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